Private Property Permits, are granted for generally temporary events, generally small in nature, occurring entirely on non-residential use private property.

Carlsbad Municipal Code (CMC) §8.17 regulates varying types of events ranging from parades and bazaars to marathons and bicycle races, which are subject to Special Event Permits. The city recognizes certain events are smaller in nature and do not have the same level of impacts as Special Events. The Carlsbad Municipal Code provides a simple ministerial process for small, temporary commercial, fund-raising or similar event held on non-residential use private property.

A permit for these events, referred to as a Private Property Permit (P3), can be considered under the following conditions:

1. The event is held entirely on non-residential use private property and is consistent with zoning/land use.
2. The event does not require use of public property in a manner which impacts or restricts the public’s normal or typical use.
3. The event or activity is not associated with a Special Event.
4. The event does not require public city services, including police patrols or traffic management.
5. The event is limited in length/duration and is not reoccur frequently. Events that fail to meet any of the conditions above are not covered by a P3.

Applicants may be required to seek land use permits with Planning or must contact Parks & Recreation Department regarding a Special Event Permit.  

A Tent Permit from the Fire Department will be required when tents/canopies meet the following conditions: 

• ≥400 square feet total tent coverage with one or more sidewalls 
• ≥700 square feet total tent coverage
• Aggregate of multiple tents separated less than 12 feet apart will be considered as one tent, irrespective of the individual size of each tent

Applications must be submitted at least two (2) weeks in advance of the event to allow for application screening, department review/comments and issuance.

For additional information please see IB-108 for detailed information and permit submittal requirements.

All submittals or questions should be directed to: outdooractivation@carlsbadca.gov